Master of Divinity and Master of Arts in Counseling Dual Degree

A dual degree student will graduate with two masters degrees in less time than it would take to complete those degrees individually.

The dual degree master of divinity and master of arts in counseling combines the theological, biblical and pastoral training of a master of divinity with the psychologically and spiritually grounded professional counseling training of the master of arts in counseling degree.

Degree Requirements

60 hours of course work for the master of divinity degree. Advisors will help students decide how the master of divinity core requirements will be reduced.

60 credit hours toward the master of arts in counseling degree. Three of these hours are designated as a counseling elective, which could occur in the seminary context.

The dual degree advisor will work with each student on a case-by-case basis to determine which course substitutions are more suitable in light of schedule constraints and individual needs.

Why EMS?

Formation studies

A unique strength of Eastern Mennonite Seminary is our formation program. We believe that focusing on one’s own formation during the seminary journey is the way for ministering persons to be healthy and whole in their vocations in ministry and counseling. For this degree, four formation courses are required. Formation in God’s Story I & II (2 credits each) helps students understand their own lives in conversation with and connection to God’s story as found in Scripture and being written in the present in their own lives through spiritual practices. Formation in Ministry I & II (3 credits each) offers students the opportunity to put their learning into practice in internship sites related to their vocational leanings with a mentor to help with on-site theological reflection. For more information, please visit the formation page

Accreditation

The EMU masters in counseling is an approved licensed professional counseling program by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). The EMS master of divinity is approved by the Association of Theological Schools as an accredited degree.

Identity-focused

You will chose to work from either a pastoral identity or a counselor identity throughout your program. Understanding your the primary identity of your practice will aid you in your development and service.

Curriculum

Students will generally spend two full years in the master of arts in counseling program. The sequencing of the seminary studies will be decided on an individual basis.

Addictions Counseling
Internship and practicum experiences are also required.

Admissions Requirements

To be admitted to the dual-degree program students must be accepted to both the master of divinity program and the master of arts in counseling program. Students may fill out one application for both programs. Applicants are strongly encouraged to communicate how they will integrate the two degrees in their essay. They must also choose an academic reference, a pastoral reference and a professional reference. Applications for the MDiv/MAC dual degree are requested by March 1. Applications may be accepted after this date.